Catherine Opie: To Be Seen

Catherine Opie: To Be Seen

National Galleries of ScotlandProfessional company

Google National Galleries of Scotland
Discover nearly 80 portraits by American artist Catherine Opie alongside a selection of portraits from Scotland’s national collection, prompting questions around the who, why and how of portraits. Come face to face with Opie's mentors and collaborators, queer communities, children, surfers, high school footballers and political crowds that she makes visible through her work, as well as self-portraits of Opie herself. Journey through 30 years of the artist’s work as she questions representations of home, intimacy and family, and explores politics, identity and power structures. The first major exhibition of her work in Scotland.

About National Galleries of Scotland

Catherine Opie: To Be Seen is an exhibition presented by National Galleries of Scotland at the Royal Scottish Academy. It brings together nearly 80 portraits by American artist Catherine Opie alongside a selection of portraits from Scotland's national collection. The exhibition spans 30 years of Opie's work and explores representations of home, intimacy and family, as well as politics, identity and power structures. Visitors encounter Opie's mentors, collaborators, queer communities, children, surfers, high school footballers and political crowds, as well as self-portraits. The first major exhibition of her work in Scotland.

Why see this show?

Nearly 80 portraits drawn from across 30 years of practice, placed in dialogue with Scotland's own national collection. A rare opportunity to encounter Opie's bold, inclusive vision of portraiture in a landmark Scottish setting.

Tickets

£12.80 (3.20)

Book Now
When

Saturday 8 - Monday 31 August 2026

Weekdays at 10:00 & 10:15 & 10:30 & 10:45 & 11:00 & 11:15 & 11:30 & 11:45 & 12:00 & 12:15 & 12:30 & 12:45 & 13:00 & 13:15 & 13:30 & 13:45 & 14:00 & 14:15 & 14:30 & 14:45 & 15:00 & 15:15 & 15:30 & 15:45 & 16:00, Weekends at 10:00 & 10:15 & 10:30 & 10:45 & 11:00 & 11:15 & 11:30 & 11:45 & 12:00 & 12:15 & 12:30 & 12:45 & 13:00 & 13:15 & 13:30 & 13:45 & 14:00 & 14:15 & 14:30 & 14:45 & 15:00 & 15:15 & 15:30 & 15:45 & 16:00

525 performances

Duration

60 mins

Cast

1 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a visit take?

The exhibition slot is 60 minutes.

Where is it held?

At the Royal Scottish Academy.

What is the ticket price?

£12.80 (concessions £3.20).

What is the age guidance?

The exhibition is suitable for those aged 12 and over.

Are there any content warnings?

Yes, the exhibition contains nudity and content that may be distressing or triggering. Visitors will be standing throughout and required to walk around during the experience.

What is the exhibition about?

It presents nearly 80 portraits by Catherine Opie spanning 30 years of her career, exploring identity, power, intimacy, family and queer communities, alongside selected portraits from Scotland's national collection.

About This Performance

Catherine Opie: To Be Seen is a exhibitions performance at Royal Scottish Academy during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 60 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.

Experience the magic of live performance at Edinburgh Festival. Each show offers something unique and memorable.

Venue: Royal Scottish Academy

Royal Scottish Academy is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.

Tips for Attending

  • Read recent reviews for audience reactions
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Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £12.8

Age Guidance: 12+

Content Warnings: Audience will be standing throughout, Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Audience required to walk or move around during the performance, Nudity

Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.

Part of Edinburgh Festival 2026

Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.Catherine Opie: To Be Seen represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API